Firearms Arrest 

November 14, 2026 – Ventura County Sheriff’s Office officials report that during the month of November 2026, detectives assigned to the West County Special Enforcement Unit began an investigation into a suspect who was later identified as Justin Silva, a 28-year-old Santa Paula resident, suspected of unlawfully manufacturing firearms using 3D printing technology.  During the investigation, detectives received information that Silva was manufacturing 3D printed firearms at his residence.  Based on the information obtained during the investigation, detectives obtained a search warrant for Silva’s residence.

On November 13th, 2026, detectives located and detained Silva away from his residence. Detectives served the search warrant at Silva’s residence in the 1100 block of Santa Barbara Street in Santa Paula.  During the subsequent search of Sliva’s residence, detectives located a 3D printer, several 3D printed firearms, a modified assault rifle and other firearms and firearm components including 3D printed handgun frames.

Privately manufactured firearms, commonly referred to as “ghost guns”, often lack serial numbers, making them difficult for law enforcement to trace them during criminal investigations.

As a result of the investigation, Silva was arrested and booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for a violation of 30600(a) PC – Unlawful manufacture of an assault weapon, 30605(a) PC – Unlawful possession of an assault weapon, and 32310(a) PC – Manufacturing of high-capacity magazines.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the members of the public for their continued support and assistance in investigating criminal activity.  Community partnerships remain an important part of our efforts to reduce crime and improve public safety throughout Ventura County.  Anyone with information regarding unlawful firearm manufacturing or related criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

Nature of Incident:	Search Warrant Results in Seizure of 3D - Printed Firearms.
Report Number:	26-148638 / 26-144895
Location:	1100 block of Santa Barbara Street, Santa Paula, CA
Date & Time:	November 13th, 2026, 07:00 AM
Unit(s) Responsible:	West County Special Enforcement Unit, Headquarters Investigations
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent		City of Residence	Age
(S) Justin Silva		Santa Paula	28

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to a $1,000 reward for information, which leads to arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime.  The caller may remain anonymous.  The call is not recorded.  Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Source & photo: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office